Family vacations come in all shapes and sizes. From multi-generational getaways to new parents vacationing with their young children, the beach is a place to make memories that last a lifetime. When it is time to spend a beach day with a baby or toddler, this blog post will come in handy.
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Keep reading for the best tips and tricks for a fun and smooth beach day with your baby or toddler.
Must-Have Beach Gear for Toddlers and Babies
If you have a baby or a toddler, you already know that little ones tend to need a lot of gear. A successful day at the beach doesn’t require tons of stuff, but there are several things that will make your day easier and keep your children happy.
Beach Wagon
A folding beach wagon will save you from making multiple trips from your car or beach house. It will keep you from juggling all your beach bags, a cooler, chairs, an umbrella, etc. If your child is old enough to sit in the wagon, that is handy also!
Beach Umbrella and Sun Protection
Keep you and your little ones in the shade to avoid too much sun exposure and sunburn. There are a variety of umbrellas, shade tents, and canopies on the market that will get the job done. Here are a few other items that you will want to protect your wee one from the harmful effects of the sun:
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear with UV Protection
- Sunglass with strap
- Hat
Inflatable Kiddie Pool
This is perhaps the best-kept secret for a great day at the beach with your baby! Once at the beach, inflate the small pool (the kind with rings to inflate) and fill it with a little water from the gulf. This provides a splashing good time for your little one for hours on end.
Sand Pail and Toddler-Friendly Beach Toys
Babies and toddlers don’t need fancy toys. Most prefer to play with cardboard boxes, wooden spoons, and pots & pans. Likewise, all your little one needs for beach day fun are a few plastic cups, various spoons, or other small toys that can get sandy & wet. A bucket or sand pail is ideal for carrying all the “toys” and filling your kiddie pool. Of course, you can buy an age-appropriate set of beach toys if you prefer.
Tips & Tricks for Beach Day with Baby
A long day at the beach can be a challenge. It can be hot and sticky, people can get hungry and tired, and it can be overwhelming to get everyone & everything to the beach. However, with a bit of planning, preparation, and expert tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable time with your family.
Snacks and Drinks
Pack up everyone’s favorite beach-friendly snacks and drinks, toddlers and babies included. Here is a list of excellent snacks that the whole family will enjoy:
- Goldfish Crackers
- Fruit
- Vegetable Slices
- Squeezable Yogurt Tubes
- Squeezable Applesauce
- Cookies
- Cheese Sticks
It is of utmost importance for everyone to stay hydrated. Water is the best drink for a beach day with a baby or toddler. A special cup or water bottle will make drinking water more fun. Parents can add a small amount of juice to make it more flavorful. Smaller babies should be nursed or bottle-fed often to keep them well hydrated.
Water for Rinsing Sand
Everyone knows that the beach plus kids equals sand everywhere. Carry an extra liter of fresh water to rinse little fingers and sandy faces. This is extremely helpful at snack time!
Bandana or Cooling Cloth
Babies and toddlers don’t regulate their body temperature the same way adults do. If you think that your little one is getting overheated, you can dampen a bandana or a cooling cloth with some cool water. Drape the cloth around the neck or pat it on the wrists, underarms, and neck to cool off.
Avoid the Hottest Part of the Day
During the summer, avoiding the hottest part of the day is best. Spend the morning on the beach, then return to your vacation rental for lunch and nap time. Later in the afternoon, head back to the beach once it cools off. When you stay at Adagio, taking a break and retreating to your rental anytime is easy. You can also cool off in the pool if you need a break from the beach.
Go for a Bike Ride
Bike riding on 30A is a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon. La Dolce Vita, the on-site bike rental company at Adagio, offers adult bikes with infant carriers. Rent a bike and head out on a fun-filled family adventure.
Find the Perfect Baby-Friendly Vacation Rental
At Adagio, we offer a selection of premier three- and four-bedroom vacation rentals. We pride ourselves on being the best family resort on 30A, which is reflected in each of our condos. Search today for the perfect accommodations for your getaway. If you need assistance, our friendly and professional staff is standing by to help.